How to Stop a Fight With Your Boyfriend

Even if you and your man don't fight quite that intensely, it's never a bad idea to have some tricks handy for taking a blow-out down a notch. Jennifer Baker, PhD, offers a few tips to cool things down.

The Jersey Shore's Ronnie and Sammi have had some pretty nasty arguments over the past couple of seasons. And recently, they've gotten worse than usual—we're talking brutal name calling and trashing each other's stuff. Clearly, the explosive duo could use some cool-down tips. And let's be real, even if you and your man don't fight quite that intensely, it's never a bad idea to have some tricks handy for taking a blow-out down a notch. Fights do happen between even the coolest couples. Jennifer Baker, PhD, offers a few moves that'll put the breaks on when you're really going at it.

Take a 30 minute pause—as in, separate and doing other things for half an hour. Studies have shown it takes that much time to thoroughly calm down. Once you're both more chill, resume the convo and you should each be able to make your points more clearly.

Let him know you're hearing what he's saying by telling him that you think his point is valid but you feel differently. Often what escalates an argument is the impression that the other person isn't listening.

Diffuse a really heated moment by saying something light and funny. Comment on something happening in the moment, or refer to a past event that made you both laugh—it'll break the tension and allow you both to reset.

Stand with your shoulders and knees toward your guy to signal that you're invested in him, even though you're angry. The wrong body language can make a bad argument even worse—crossing your arms, tapping your foot, or rolling your eyes makes your boyfriend feel like you don't give a damn.